Principal's Message

I have just completed reviewing and commenting on Year 11 – 13 reports.  I am impressed with the way most students are taking an active role in their learning by keeping up to date with assignments, asking probing questions in class and using the many and various online resources available. Please have a conversation with your child about the report and use it as an opportunity to re-assess their goals for the year.

Work has been continuing on the formation of the Dunedin Catholic Schools Community of Learning (COL). The ten schools have been meeting to look at Achievement Data with a view to framing up our achievement challenges and targets. These are now back with the individual schools and their Boards of Trustees for comment. They are mainly focussed on writing, reading, mathematics and science. There are also some goals specific to Kavanagh College around NCEA. The most exciting part of the Community of Learning is the opportunity for the Dunedin Catholic Schools to be able to work collaboratively, share best teaching practice and increase the engagement of students.

Over the last week staff have been reviewing the snapshot cards. The aim is to give clearer information to parents about student engagement in classes. If students are doing all that is expected of them and are up to date with their work then the Snapshot should show “At the expected level of engagement”. The nine comments to be used on Snapshots from next week are listed below.

• Exceptional level of engagement
  
• Above the expected level of engagement
  
• At the expected level of engagement
  
• Below the expected level of engagement
  
• Progress concern due to explained absences
  
• Concern regarding attendance
  
• Concern regarding independent learning outside the classroom
  
• Concern due to behaviour in class
  
• Concern due to work rate in class
  

Congratulations to Therese Makasini and Mackenzie Saville on being selected into the Dunedin Under 17A Netball team. They will be travelling to Netball New Zealand Age Group Nationals in Pukekohe in July.  

Finally I wish you all a great Queens Birthday break. Be safe and I look forward to seeing all students back on Tuesday with their usual boundless energy and optimism.

God Bless

Steve Read

Acting Principal